"Yes, miss; come, walk in. There is but a poor fire in the front parlor—suppose you sit down in the back room. Mrs. Martin will be down in a minute."
The first object which arrested Beulah's attention was a center table covered with books. "Perhaps," thought she, "they will permit me to read some of them." While she sat looking over the titles the rustle of silk caused her to glance around, and she saw Mrs. Martin quite near her.
"Good-morning," said the lady, with a searching look, which made the little figure tremble.
"Good-morning, madam."
"You are the girl Miss White promised to send from the asylum, are you not?"
"Yes, madam."
"Do you think you can take good care of my baby?"
"Oh, I will try."
"You don't look strong and healthy—have you been sick?"
"No; I am very well, thank you."